Psychologists from Oxford University found that playing Tetris shortly after a trauma helped erase bad memories and reduced distressing flashbacks.
After waiting for 30 minutes, 20 of the [40] volunteers played “Tetris” for 10 minutes while the other half did nothing. Those who had played the computer game experienced significantly fewer flashbacks over the next week.
Researchers …

According to the all-knowing interwebs (here and here), the metric system was first adopted by France on December 10, 1799. Fast forward 209 years. There are only 3 countries left in the entire world who have not adopted what is now known as the International System of Units – Burma, Liberia, and…the good ol’ US …

According to a new UCLA study, searching the web enhances brain circuitry in middle-aged and older adults. In the same way that crossword puzzles, regular reading, and other mind-stimulating activities are thought to help keep the brain “in shape,” this new research suggests adding web surfing to the list.

In an effort to keep museums relevant in an ever-increasing digital age, the renowned Smithsonian Institution announced (yesterday) plans to digitize its entire 137 million-object collection. Not knowing how much it will cost or how long it will take, museum officials say they will prioritize which artifacts go digital first and add them to the …

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration officially hits the half-century mark on Tuesday, July 29 – celebrating 50 years of shooting stuff into orbit (among other notable achievements)!
(via Wired)

Chalk up another point for coffee! The BBC is reporting on a recent study performed at the University of North Dakota involving rabbits and coffee.
A vital barrier* between the brain and the main blood supply of rabbits fed a fat-rich diet was protected in those given a caffeine supplement.